Southern Vietnam & Cambodia - 17 Days

Immerse yourself in the culture of the local villages in this unforgettable Vietnam and Cambodia experience.

For those wanting an authentic and in-depth experience delving into the heart of southern Vietnam and Cambodia, this adventure has it all. Explore the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Old Town, snorkel and soak up the sun on white sand beaches, cycle through the green countryside, and watch the stunning sunset over Angkor Wat. With the chance to immerse yourself in the deep history and visit local villages, this trip is one truly unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Hoi An to Nha Trang (overnight train)

Let the adventure begin! You have a full day to enjoy ancient Hoi An and all the attractions that come with it. We recommend a trip to the pristine local beaches to enjoy a lazy day soaking up the sun and surf, so grab the sunscreen and work on that tan whilst sipping on a fresh coconut. This evening we bid farewell to our portside paradise as we transfer to our overnight train. We’ll continue south along the coast for our morning arrival at the immaculate azure waters of the capital of Khanh Hoa Province, Nha Trang. For now, it’s time to get some rest!

Day 2: Nha Trang

We arrive into the idyllic seaside city of Nha Trang early this morning, then you get the day to explore all of the epic sights and tourist attractions. Later we’ll head into the night to experience the renowned nightlife in this shimmering Vietnamese metropolis. Get ready to let loose!

Day 3: Nha Trang to Dalat

This morning we say goodbye to the coast and head inland towards the capital of Lam Dong Province, with a stop en route at the Po Nagar Cham Towers! We have included entry into this ancient temple dedicated to the goddess of the country, Yan Po Nagar. We arrive in Dalat in the early afternoon and have a short orientation walk, and then the day is yours to spend as you please. Be sure to check out the otherworldly “Crazy House” and its odd, organic architecture.

Day 4: Dalat

Get out there and explore Dalat! If you want to delve a little deeper than the typical tourist sights, join Mr Rot for his optional Secret Tour. You’ll get to visit numerous attractions including cricket farms, a local market, silkworm farms, coffee plantations, the thundering Elephant Falls, local villages, and admire the beautiful scenery. Mr Rot prides himself on providing an authentic Vietnamese experience, so everything you see will be off the beaten path. We arrive from the Secret Tour in the evening and after grabbing a bite to eat head out for a surreal drinking experience in the eccentric surrounds of 100 Roofs Cafe. It has to be seen to be believed!

Day 5: Dalat to Ho Chi Minh City

Today we head to the former capital of South Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City. We have two stops along the way, beginning with the stunning Linh Phuoc Pagoda. Explore the temple’s fascinating decorations made of reclaimed glass and ceramic, and see the giant glass dragon sculpture. Our second stop is for lunch on the banks of an idyllic local river. We arrive in old Saigon in the afternoon and have an orientation walk to check out all the historic sights. Save some energy, because after dinner we’ll dance the night away at a nearby Vietnamese club.

Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City

Join us today for an optional excursion to explore the Cu Chi tunnels! Located a few hours northwest of old Saigon, the tunnel complex was an important store and hideout for the Viet Cong during the war. In the afternoon we’ll visit the War Remnants Museum, formerly the American War Crimes Museum, to gain vivid insight into the conflict from a local perspective. This evening we’ll head to a local restaurant, followed off by a trip into the backpacker triangle to have a few drinks and soak up the nightlife.

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh

Meet with your awesome guide as we catch our transfer to the HCMC bus station. From here we’ll hop on board a local bus and make our way to Phnom Penh, so sit back, relax and get some rest. We make our arrival into Phnom Penh around mid-afternoon where we’ll check into our hotel, and you’ll have the chance to get out and about, and stretch your legs. Have a chat with your guide who can fill you in on what to see and do for the next few days in this dynamic city.

Day 8: Phnom Penh

Spend the day exploring this dynamic city and soak up the rich history. See the magnificence of the towering Independence Monument, visit the Royal Palace complex and stroll through the gardens, or relax in one of the city’s many fine cafes. There’s nothing better than getting lost in a new city!

Day 9: Phnom Penh

You’ve got another day to experience this epic city! Later on we’ll head out to Romdeng Restaurant, a Tree Alliance member, for a delicious optional traditional dinner. For the brave at heart, how about a taste of deep-fried tarantula? Afterwards the night is yours, so head back and get some sleep or join us at a few of our favourite bars to keep the party going.

Day 10: Phnom Penh

This is our final day in the capital, so either enjoy a sleep in, or get back out there to tick off any last sights on your list! The capital is overflowing with plenty to see and do, but for those looking for a glimpse into the darker history of Cambodia and the Khmer Rouge we offer an optional excursion to visit the infamous S-21 Prison and Killing Fields. You’ll delve deep into the history and gain insight into the brutality of this communist regime. We’ll meet this evening for a refreshing riverside cocktail as we watch the sunset over the city! Hop in a tuk tuk and join us tonight as we venture out into Bassac Lane to experience its quaint hipster bars.

Day 11: Phnom Penh to Kampot

It’s time to wave goodbye to the Cambodian capital as we head to the idyllic riverside town of Kampot. We’ll arrive just before lunch and spend the afternoon at a local pepper farm where we learn about the famous Kampot pepper! Here you can also go for a refreshing swim and take some #instaworthy pics in an infinity pool! This evening we have an optional sunset cruise on the river to soak up the pristine natural beauty of Cambodia.

Day 12: Kampot to Sihanoukville

We’ll make our way west to Sihanoukville and spend the day chilling at the picturesque Otres Beach. Get ready to enjoy the day spent relaxing in the coastal waters! Treat yourself to a massage and swing in a hammock whilst sipping a refreshing cocktail. This is the epitome of island living! We’ll head back in the late afternoon to prepare for a night out in Sihanoukville.

Day 13: Sihanoukville to Koh Rong Samloem

Today we make our way to Koh Rong Samloem on an included boat trip to enjoy a day of relaxation on this idyllic island! Relax on the white sand beaches, go for a refreshing swim, or get active and play a game of beach volleyball. Nope, you’re not dreaming! Take it all in, and work on that tan - don’t forget the sunscreen! In the late afternoon we’ll head back to the mainland. Join us for an optional beachside BBQ dinner, before going out for a couple of drinks to round off the day.

Day 14: Sihanoukville to Battambang

Hop on the coach for our journey north to Battambang! Tonight, join us for an optional visit to the Battambang Circus, and check out Khmer culture through the lens of performance art. Then we visit a local restaurant for a delicious included dinner of traditional Khmer food!

Day 15: Battambang to Siem Reap

Gear up for the included bike tour through the Cambodian countryside! We’ll visit local homes, learn about the livelihoods of the local community, and enjoy the relaxing pace of village life. After this enlightening morning, we’ll then continue our journey to the ever-popular gateway of the Angkor region, Siem Reap. We’ll arrive in the early afternoon and get checked in, before heading out to see the sights on an orientation walk. The night is yours to enjoy, so make the most of it and explore Pub Street or the lively night markets

Day 16: Siem Reap

Breakfast can wait, don’t miss the opportunity to see the sunrise over ancient Angkor Wat! Join us for our optional sunrise excursion to explore this majestic location. After you’ve seen the sunrise over the world’s largest religious monument, head off to visit Bayon Temple, the centrepiece of the ancient royal city of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Thom. See the ”Tomb Raider” temple and Terrace of the Elephants all from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle safe in the care of an expert local guide. Tonight we hit the vibrant nightlife of Siem Reap for our final night together!

All optional extras and excursions will be available to book through your Busabout Guide on the trip.

We sell travel insurance from WorldNomads.com. It is available to people from 140 countries. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage and a range of adventure sports and activities. Get a free quote in less then a minute.

Depending on your region, tours costing more than 200 GBP / 300 EUR / 400 USD / 400 CAD / 400 AUD / 400 NZD / 2000 ZAR: a non-refundable deposit of 50 GBP / 75 EUR / 100 USD / 100 CAD / 200 AUD / 200 NZD / 1000 ZAR per person per tour is required, but if the booking is made within 45 days of the nominated departure date the full amount payable must be made at the time of booking.

Yes, depending on availability there is no problem to change dates (a small fee applies). If the new date is more expensive the difference will also need to be paid. You can also transfer the funds you’ve already paid over to another trip of the same or higher value if you change your mind, as long as it’s outside of the notification period.

What happens if I cancel?

A cancellation fee applies based on the length of the trip and how soon the departure date is. Please visit our terms and conditions page for more information.

Contact us if you want to learn more about this trip or about our services.

This tour connects with the following trips

All of our tours are designed to link to each other. The Southern Vietnam & Cambodia - 17 Days connects to these great trips.